Where to get great vegetarian food in Taipei
Plant-based food spots worth knowing even if you aren't veggie
Eating vegetarian or vegan in Taipei is easier than it used to be, but genuinely good options may still take time to find.
Beyond temple-adjacent buffets and salad bowls, a growing number of restaurants are putting real thought into plant-based menus.
This Is Taipei visited three places in early 2026 serving great food that not only vegetarians and vegans will enjoy.
#1: Preserve
Avocado-heavy veggie dishes and baked goods near Taipei Dome
Since the Taipei Dome opened in late 2023, a steady stream of new restaurants has appeared around it. Among the options is Preserve, a Western-style vegetarian cafe that is good for either a sit-down dinner or quick takeaway.
The menu is huge and leans heavily on avocado, with lots of baked goods and breads. At the front counter, you’ll find quiches, pies, and pastries on display.
This Is Taipei recommends the generously-stuffed cheese croissant, and the Turkish eggs with halloumi and avocado (NT$320) — a clear favorite, judging by the number of plates passing by. Vegan items are clearly marked with a garlic-shaped icon, and oat milk is available.
The space is open and modern with an industrial feel and low lighting. There’s lots of seating, but it fills up fast, especially around Taipei Dome event times, so booking ahead is a good idea. If you can, aim for the comfortable sofa seating.
You may hear sounds emanating from the Taipei Dome, but the restaurant interior is calm. It can be quite cold inside, so it's advisable to bring a layer. Ordering is done via QR code.
Preserve is listed as open from 9 AM to 8 PM Monday to Friday and from 9 AM to 8:15 PM on Saturday and Sunday.
#2: Chao
Fully vegan Taiwanese rechao classics
Eateries offering rechao — fast, stir-fry often served with beer — are not always the easiest terrain for vegetarians and vegans. Enter Chao: a fully vegan restaurant that pulls off Taiwanese classics so convincingly that some customers do not realize they are meat-free at all.
The range of dishes on the menu is impressive, and include Kung Pao "chicken," Wu-style "spare ribs," and even dishes that usually rely on fish. You can request less oil and less salt, if you like.
Standout dishes from This Is Taipei's visit in February 2026 include the Hakka Stir Fry (NT$280) and the Sweet and Sour Fish Fillet (NT$290).
Drinks are help-yourself from the fridge, with a wide range of beers, plus Japanese whisky, Korean soju, and alcohol-free options. Ordering is done via QR code, and the menu is in English.
The space is low-lit and has a red theme. It is relaxed, with a large fish tank, comfortable seating, and a layout that works especially well for small groups — which is unusual for rechao.
Chao is listed as open every day between 5 PM and 11 PM.
#3: Ooh Cha Cha
Plant-based comfort dishes done simply
Ooh Cha Cha is a vegan restaurant with a broad menu: sandwiches, burgers, rice and salad bowls, smoothies, and tempeh.
When This Is Taipei visited in February 2026, we opted for the buffalo mozzarella sandwich (NT$180), which was stuffed with tofu, mozzarella, and salad. It was super filling and well balanced.
The burgers are more substantial. All are NT$359 and come with coleslaw and potato wedges. Portions are solid and the food tastes fresh. Desserts are also available, with a small discount if you order a drink.
The restaurant is small and can get busy, so short waits are common and a lot of people opt for takeout. The interior is simple with a wood-heavy, relaxed feel and their playlist is comprised of 2000s bangers — think James Blunt's "You're Beautiful" and Beyoncé's "If I Were a Boy."
The servers are friendly and speak English. The open kitchen sits directly behind the counter, adding to the cozy, informal feel of the space.
Ooh Cha Cha is listed as open from 10 AM to 9 PM Monday to Friday and from 10 AM to 8 PM on Saturday and Sunday.
