Think Sichuan cuisine is all about meat and spice? Think again. While Chengdu is known for its bold flavors and fiery hotpot, it’s also surprisingly accommodating for vegan and vegetarian travelers. Thanks to the city’s deep Buddhist roots and a growing modern wellness movement, plant-based food options in Chengdu are diverse, delicious, and easy to find.
Why Chengdu is a Great City for Vegans and Vegetarians
Historically, Sichuan Buddhist temples have followed a strict vegetarian diet. Many traditional dishes — from tofu specialties to wild mushroom stir-fries — are naturally plant-based. Today, an increasing number of locals are exploring vegetarianism for health and ethical reasons, making plant-based eating even more accessible across the city.
Must-Try Vegan & Vegetarian Dishes in Chengdu
1. Gan Guo Cauliflower (干锅菜花)
This dry-fried cauliflower dish is crispy, spicy, and aromatic. Usually made without meat, just ask for no pork or sausage to be sure.
2. Mapo Tofu (麻婆豆腐) – Vegan Version
Traditionally made with minced pork, but many restaurants now offer a vegan version using mushrooms or tofu crumbles.
3. Suan La Fen (酸辣粉)
A tangy, spicy bowl of glass noodles in a flavorful broth. Ask to skip the meat topping.
4. Wild Mushroom Hotpot
Found in many hotpot restaurants, this earthy, umami-rich dish lets you enjoy the hotpot experience — 100% meat-free.
5. Zha Cai (榨菜) and other Sichuan pickled vegetables
Often served as appetizers, they’re savory, tangy, and perfect with rice or noodles.
Best Vegetarian & Vegan Restaurants in Chengdu
Chen Mapo Tofu (for Vegan Mapo Tofu)
Ask for the vegetarian version of their famous dish.
Location: Various branches across Chengdu.
Wujia Liangfen (五佳凉粉)
Known for its cold noodle dishes, including sweet water noodles and spicy liangfen — both vegan-friendly.
Zi Zai Vegetarian (自在素食馆)
Elegant temple-inspired dishes in a peaceful setting. 100% vegetarian.
Great for traditional Buddhist-style meals.
Vege Tiger (素老虎)
Modern, Instagrammable vegan café serving creative Sichuan-Western fusion.
Think vegan dan dan noodles, avocado sushi, and almond milk drinks.
Buddhist Temple Food Experience
If you want to eat like a monk, head to Wenshu Monastery, where the attached restaurant offers a daily vegetarian buffet featuring seasonal veggies, tofu, and soups — all prepared according to Buddhist cooking principles (no garlic, onions, or animal products).
Tips for Ordering Vegan Food in Chengdu
Know the keywords:
“Su shi (素食)” = vegetarian
“Quan su (全素)” = vegan / completely vegetarian
“Bu yao rou (不要肉)” = no meat
“Bu yao niu nai (不要牛奶)” = no milk
“Bu yao dan (不要蛋)” = no egg
Use translation apps: A few saved phrases in Chinese can help when dining at local spots.
Visit Buddhist restaurants for reliably vegan meals.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re enjoying a comforting bowl of vegan noodles, sampling temple cuisine, or dining at a modern vegetarian café, Chengdu offers a rich variety of meat-free meals. The city’s culinary scene is evolving — and embracing the green side of Sichuan flavor.
