Kobe, famous for its marbled beef, might seem like an unlikely vegan paradise—but don’t be fooled! This cosmopolitan port city hides a thriving plant-based food scene. From cozy cafés to elegant eateries, Kobe’s vegan restaurants blend Japanese hospitality with global flavors. As a foreigner, you’ll find English-friendly menus, welcoming staff, and creative dishes that go beyond salads. Here’s your curated guide:
1. Vegans Cafe & Restaurant
📍 Location: 2-11-7 Nakayamate-dori, Chuo-ku (5-min walk from Sannomiya Station)
🌱 Specialty: 100% vegan Japanese-Western fusion.
🍽️ Must-Try: “Kobe Vegan Curry” – a rich, spiced curry with soy meat, served with rainbow vegetables.
🌟 Foreigner-Friendly: Full English menu, staff speak conversational English. Chill vibe with retro-Japanese decor.
💡 Tip: Try their matcha tiramisu—it’s legendary!
2. Falafel Garden
📍 Location: 1-24-3 Nakayamate-dori, Chuo-ku (near Sannomiya Station)
🌱 Specialty: Authentic Middle Eastern vegan street food.
🍽️ Must-Try: Hummus platter with pillowy pita and crispy falafel. Gluten-free options available.
🌟 Foreigner-Friendly: English-speaking owner, menu in English/Arabic/Japanese. Casual counter seating.
💡 Why You’ll Love It: Quick, affordable, and bursting with flavor—perfect for lunch!
3. Biotop “Farm to Table”
📍 Location: 1-17-7 Yamamoto-dori, Chuo-ku (10-min walk from Motomachi Station)
🌱 Specialty: Organic, locally sourced vegan plates in a greenhouse-style space.
🍽️ Must-Try: Seasonal vegetable bowl with sesame-miso dressing. Their lavender lemonade is divine!
🌟 Foreigner-Friendly: English menus, serene garden terrace. Staff explain ingredients patiently.
💡 Vibe: Eco-chic with plants everywhere—great for Instagram!
4. Café Freeman
📍 Location: 3-7-17 Kitano-cho, Chuo-ku (historic Kitano district)
🌱 Specialty: Vegan pastries and “Japanese soul food.”
🍽️ Must-Try: Tofu karaage (fried tofu) bento set. Don’t miss their soy milk soft-serve ice cream!
🌟 Foreigner-Friendly: English menu, friendly owner who adores sharing food stories.
💡 Context: Nestled in Kobe’s European-style Kitano area—pair your meal with a stroll past vintage mansions.
5. Moriguchi Vegan Sushi
📍 Location: 4-3-3 Goko-dori, Chuo-ku (near Harborland)
🌱 Specialty: High-end vegan sushi mimicking Kobe’s seafood heritage.
🍽️ Must-Try: “Unagi” (eel) sushi made from grilled eggplant and miso glaze.
🌟 Foreigner-Friendly: Reservation recommended; chef speaks basic English. Omakase (chef’s choice) available.
💡 For Adventurers: A gourmet experience challenging the myth that vegan sushi is boring!
Tips for Foreign Visitors
- Language: Most spots have English menus. Learn “bīgan” (vegan) and “shōjin ryōri” (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine).
- Etiquette: No tipping! Say “gochisōsama” (thank you for the meal) when leaving.
- Accessibility: All restaurants are within 15 mins of JR Sannomiya Station (Kobe’s main transit hub).
Kobe proves that Japanese cuisine isn’t just about fish or meat—it’s a celebration of seasonality and craftsmanship. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or just veg-curious, these spots offer unforgettable meals that honor both tradition and innovation. Ready to taste Kobe’s green heart? 🥢🌿