Food options in Tokyo
In Tokyo you’ll find many amazing food options, but pure Jain food is limited. If you are vegetarian/vegan or Jain, here’s a simple guide:
- Indian vegetarian restaurants (best for Jain-friendly food)
These are your safest options because staff usually understand “no onion, no garlic, no eggs, no meat, no fish” etc. For Jain, also say “no root vegetables, no mushrooms, no alcohol.” Good examples in Tokyo: - Nataraj (several branches) – Pure vegetarian Indian; they specifically mention Jain meals on request. - Veg Kitchen (Okachimachi) – 100% vegetarian; known for offering Jain dishes (no onion/garlic, etc.). - Saffron Ikebukuro – Indian restaurant; serves Jain food with advance request.
- Vegan / vegetarian Japanese-style places
Ask for: - No fish/bonito stock (dashi), no mirin/sake (alcohol), no meat or seafood. Look for: - Vegan ramen shops (like T’s Tantan in major stations) – then request no onion/garlic and check about stock. - Shojin-ryori (Buddhist temple cuisine) – often vegetarian/vegan, but you must still confirm no fish stock and, if Jain, no roots.
- Simple supermarket / DIY options
- Fresh fruits, bread without eggs, plain yogurt, plain rice, salad without dressing, nuts, etc., from convenience stores and supermarkets can help when you don’t find a suitable restaurant. - Always read labels or ask about dashi (fish stock), gelatin, and alcohol in sauces.
- Very important Jain tips in Japan
When you explain your diet, say clearly: - “No meat, no fish, no egg, no alcohol.” - If Jain: “No onion, no garlic, no leek, no spring onion, no radish, no potato, no carrot, no beetroot, no mushrooms.” - And always confirm: “No fish stock (dashi), no bonito, no mirin, no sake.”
For a Jain-focused overview of food in Japan and sample restaurant ideas, you can read more here: