Food

People with Diabetes Must Keep a Watchful Eye on These Foods

2. Honey Did you know that people with diabetes should avoid honey? Although honey is sweet and a popular topping, it’s not very healthy for those… Trista Smith - March 29, 2022

Diabetes has become a big problem worldwide, with 415 million people living with diabetes. The CDC estimates that more than half a billion people could have diabetes by 2040. That figure has a lot to do with what we consume daily. Whether it’s a sandwich and chips or a salad with soda, you have to watch what you eat and drink if you have diabetes. Those with type 2 diabetes have a restricted diet of low carbs and sugars. Thus, being mindful of what you ingest is essential. People with diabetes must watch these foods and drinks or consume them in small portions and infrequently. However, that doesn’t mean that just because you have diabetes, you need to cut out everything you love from your diet.

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30. Shortening

According to the American Diabetes Association, people with diabetes have a higher chance of stroke or heart attack. However, if you limit the intake of saturated fats, you can lower your risk. That includes cutting out palm oil, lard, and high-fat meats. Furthermore, you should consume any dairy products in moderation, as well. Remember to look at the packaging of grocery items when shopping; if you see hydrogenated oils on the ingredient label, you should put that back on the shelf. Why? Because seeing hydrogenated oils on the label means there is trans-fat in the product, even if the product claims otherwise.

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29. Fruit Smoothies

Fruit smoothies may seem healthy; they even have “fruit” in the name. If you have diabetes, pay attention to how often you drink fruit smoothies and how large the portions are at once. That goes double if you get them from a smoothie bar. At least opt to get protein added and order a small rather than a large. Alternatively, you could make a healthy smoothie at home if you crave a one. That way, you know what’s going into it. Most smoothie places offer a pulverized, low-fiber smoothie primarily of fruit. However, since it is full of natural sugars, that will make your blood glucose spike. They are full of carbs, which you need to watch out for when you have diabetes. That is especially true when it’s something with no protein or healthy fat that acts similarly to fiber. These factors help slow the digestion process and prevent blood sugar from spiking.

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28. Fatty Cuts of Meat

Just because you have diabetes doesn’t mean you need to avoid high-fat cuts of meat altogether. However, you really should limit your consumption of them. Fatty cuts of meat include ground beef, hot dogs, bologna, bacon, ribs, and sausage. Like full-fat dairy, fatty cuts of meat are high in saturated fats. The saturated fats in meat raise cholesterol and promote inflammation throughout the body. They can also put those who have diabetes at an even greater risk for heart disease than those without it. As an alternative to fatty cuts of meat, choose lean proteins, such as turkey, chicken, pork tenderloin, fish, shellfish, and lean beef.

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27. Alcohol

Even if you don’t have diabetes, it’s best to check with your doctor before indulging in alcoholic beverages. That is excellent advice when watching your blood glucose and sugar intake. Even if you are free to drink alcohol, only do so in moderation, which means having no more than two servings of alcohol per day if you are male and no more than one serving per day if you are female. Suppose you take medicine for diabetes. You should understand that these medications process through the liver, just like alcohol. As a result, the load could be too much for your liver. Taking insulin can cause your blood sugar to drop, especially if you aren’t eating but are drinking.

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26. Dried Fruit

All fruit has natural sugar in it, some more than others. So thinking that dried fruit would be the same would make sense. However, that isn’t the case. Although dried fruit contains many nutrients and fiber, the dehydration they go through removes the water from them, making it easier to eat. The easier something is to eat, the more you will probably consume. Think about how many grapes you can eat in one sitting compared to raisins. Grapes fill you faster with their water content. So when reaching for any dried fruit, you might want to think about just how much you will consume. People with diabetes have to watch their blood glucose, and indulging in a whole bag of dried fruit will cause blood sugar spikes.

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25. Pineapple

Fruits of all kinds are delicious, nutritious, and a great snack choice for any time of the year. Most fruits are low in glycemic index, or GI, scores. That means that they don’t impact blood sugar levels as much as other foods. Because fruit contains fiber and fructose, the fruit helps the body digest carbohydrates more slowly, which leads to more blood sugar levels over time. However, pineapples have a medium GI score. Meaning they have more of an effect on blood glucose than other fruits. Eat pineapple in moderation, pairing it with healthful fat or protein, such as avocado, seeds, nuts, or nut butter, to limit its effects on blood glucose levels.

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24. Bananas

Although bananas are a healthy fruit, they are also pretty high in sugar and carbs, which are the primary nutrients that raise blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes, you want to be mindful of what you consume. Thus, if you’re going to have a banana, eat it with other foods, such as full-fat yogurt or nuts. That way, it helps slow the absorption and digestion of sugar. Also, make sure to watch your portion size. Eating a smaller-sized banana will help. Furthermore, choose one that is firm and nearly ripe. Why? Because the sugar content will be slightly lower. Keep reading to learn more about foods people with diabetes should avoid.

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23. Watermelon

Watermelon may be delicious and refreshing, but they are a high GI food, which isn’t the best thing for someone who has diabetes. Don’t get upset just yet, though, because some foods with high GI levels don’t raise blood sugar as much as you’d think. Therefore, this is where the glycemic load, or GL, comes in for consideration. The GL takes into account the portion size, as well as the GI in food. Lycopene is an antioxidant in watermelon which helps fight free radicals, slows cancer growth, and reduces the risk of cardiovascular disorders, macular diseases, and diabetes. Reducing your risk of heart disease is essential because 68% of people with diabetes over 65 years old pass away from cardiovascular disease.

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22. Dates

Have you ever tried dates? People with diabetes should be mindful when consuming dates because they have a very high content relative to the rest of their nutritional value. However, according to one study, they are a low glycemic index food that doesn’t result in significant increases in blood glucose. They are high in antioxidant compounds that can protect your body from inflammation, known as polyphenols. Dates are also high in potassium, iron, vitamin B-6, and fiber. Use them to replace sugar, chocolate chips, or candies in recipes to ensure you eat natural sugars instead of refined sugars.

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21. Mangoes

If you have diabetes, you may have expanded your snack options to make healthier choices. Mangoes are something that may or may not make it to that list. Why? Because they contain excessive calorie and sugar content. People with diabetes should eat mangoes in moderation. However, they do have enzymes that aid the breakdown and digestion of protein and fiber, which keeps the digestive system functioning efficiently. When consuming mangoes with diabetes, the amount eaten should be based on the intensity of the disease while also fine-tuning your diet to help maintain your blood sugar levels.

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20. Cherries

Cherries are naturally sweet and have a relatively low caloric content. Studies show they contain nutrients and healthy bioactive components, including vitamin C, fiber, carotenoids, polyphenols, melatonin, tryptophan, and serotonin. However, there are a few things to consider if you have diabetes. You must account for the ripeness, type of sugar, cooking method, and the amount of processing. These factors will help determine how the glycemic index in the cherries affects blood sugar levels. As long as people with diabetes pay attention to their serving size, fresh cherries can have low GI levels.

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19. Litchi

Litchis have tons of nutrients, and they help keep you hydrated due to their high water content. They are also rich in vitamin C, help keep your skin healthy, and are a good source of dietary fibers. Litchis are high in potassium which may help prevent blood pressure spikes. Because of the antioxidants and the high amount of fibers present in litchi, they also help keep your heart healthy. They may even do wonders to your bones due to their high magnesium and phosphorus content. Nevertheless, even with all the benefits, if you have diabetes, you must be cautious. Eat litchis in moderation so that your blood sugar levels won’t spike too high.

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18. Raisins

Because raisins have a glycemic index value of between 49 and 64, they have a low to medium GI score. No matter the source, all carbohydrates affect your blood glucose levels, including the carbs in raisins, so you should be mindful of what you are consuming. However, carbohydrates’ effect on a person depends on the number of raisins you consume. Just be sure not to overeat in one sitting because many raisins eaten in one sitting could significantly increase your blood glucose levels. Keep reading for more foods people with diabetes should avoid.

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17. Pasta

Pasta of any sort has tons of carbohydrates; top it with some sauce, and those numbers add up quickly. Alfredo sauce has heavy cream, lots of butter, and parmesan cheese. People often pour it on a bed of white fettuccine noodles. Eating alfredo pasta can have 100 grams of carbs and easily tops 1,000 calories. White flour pasta with high sodium and fat sauce can elevate blood sugars over a long time. Why? Because of the high-fat content of the sauce. It’s important to look at the overall meal, not just the noodles when counting your carbs with diabetes.

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16. White Bread

When it comes to diabetes, white bread is something to keep in mind when adding it to a meal or snack. White bread loses its healthy fiber, minerals, and vitamins during the bleaching process. The refined grains convert into sugar that your body then stores. Because of this reason, consuming white bread daily can lead to diabetes, especially in those who have a family history of the disease. Refined white bread is also unable to break down inside our body correctly, making it another reason why it has the potential of clogging and clotting the heart in the long run, resulting in severe heart diseases later in life.

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15. French Fries

How often have you been asked, “Would you like fries with that?” Probably more than you can count, especially if you drive-thru or dine out regularly. However, people with diabetes should be careful with how many fries they consume, if any. That’s because French fries are potatoes. These starchy vegetables are naturally high in carbohydrates that raise blood sugar levels quickly. Although potatoes are technically a vegetable, they are probably one of the most unhealthy choices you have. When compared to other ones, they have a low fiber-to-carbohydrate ratio. They contain a ton of carbs and are also in the medium to high glycemic index range.

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14. Soda Pop

Do you love drinking soft drinks? Everyone should know that soda is not a healthy choice of beverage for anyone, especially for those who have diabetes. The alternative to regular soda would be the choice of diet soda. However, when drinking diet soda, make sure you are still drinking enough water throughout the day. Those who have switched to diet pop may find themselves drinking more of the diet soda and not enough water. Although you are cutting out these carbs from your daily consumption, please understand that diet pop is not a replacement for water. People with diabetes should avoid drinking any pop, diet or not.

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13. Iced Coffee

Iced coffee makes it to the list of foods to avoid if you have diabetes. Why? Because although black coffee may have health benefits, it becomes a lot less healthy when you add sugar and creamer. Too much sugar in the blood can lead to weight gain over time, and it’s possible to develop diabetes. Studies prove that caffeine affects insulin responses, making insulin take more time to kick in. Caffeine increases your body’s resistance to insulin and contains chloroform. As a result, drinking iced coffee can spike your blood sugar level, causing additional complications from your diabetes. Keep reading for more food and drinks you should avoid, or at least consume in moderation, if you have diabetes.

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12. White Rice

Although rice is a good staple for a fulfilling meal, it’s good to know that it’s also rich in carbohydrates and can have a high glycemic index score. If you have diabetes, you may think you should skip it altogether for dinner, but that isn’t always the case. You can still enjoy rice if you have diabetes, just make sure you don’t eat it too frequently and only consume small portions of it at a time. There are healthier types of rice than just white rice. If you want to try something different from rice, there are alternatives, such as rolled and steel cut oats, bulgur, millet, quinoa, barley, and buckwheat, all of which have low GI scores.

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11. Butter

Although butter doesn’t have tons of carbohydrates like many of the other foods on this list, it’s something that you shouldn’t overlook when consuming it. Although people with diabetes don’t need to avoid butter entirely, you should still consume it in moderation. This advice goes for anyone, not just those with diabetes. If you have diabetes or have a family history of the disease, stick to unsalted butter when cooking. Furthermore, know that butter/olive oil can be an excellent alternative for reducing saturated fat intake while keeping that buttery taste in your food. Keep reading for the top ten foods people with diabetes should avoid.

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10. Non-Dairy Milk

Even dairy milk has carbohydrates in every serving, but it’s a carb with a low glycemic index. However, this isn’t always true for non-dairy milk. With oat milk trending, it’s good to keep in mind that it’s very high in sugar and has a GI of about 86% as high as straight glucose. You can turn to substitutes if you have diabetes, such as unsweetened soy. Thanks to its higher protein levels and lower sugar levels, it tends to be the least likely to spike your blood sugar levels.

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9. Sugar Candy

Diabetes or not, about 90% of your diet should focus on healthy foods like vegetables, beans, whole grains, fruits, poultry, and fish. There is wiggle room even in a healthy diet for treats like candy, whether you have diabetes or not. Because candy treats affect your blood sugar, it’s important to focus on portion control and moderation when you select these foods. So yes, it is okay to eat treats, even when you have diabetes, but you must be mindful when doing so. Consider the carbohydrates and calories in what you are consuming, so you don’t have too much.

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8. Deep-Fried Foods

During a large, long-term study, experts revealed that people who eat many fried foods might have a higher risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease. That is especially true if there is a family history of either condition. You are at the greatest risk when you eat fried foods at a restaurant where the frying oil may not be fresh. Why? Because with each use, the oil becomes more degraded and absorbs more into the food, contributing to high cholesterol, weight gain, and higher blood pressure. These are all risk factors for type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Remember, deep-friend foods aren’t just chicken and French fries, either, but could be some of your favorite snacks like donuts.

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7. Tomato Sauce

You may not think about it, even as a person with diabetes, but tomato sauce contains many hidden sugars and salts. It becomes a problem when people use too much of it or put it on everything they are consuming, so if you are going to eat any, make sure it’s in small amounts. When using it in a recipe, keep in mind how much you are putting into it so that you aren’t adding more on top before eating it. However, whole tomatoes are a healthy option for people with diabetes because they contain an antioxidant called lycopene, which prevents cells from damage. Experts recommend eating a whole tomato instead of using it as a sauce or ketchup.

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6. Grilled Meat

Here is another type of meat to avoid if you have diabetes. Do you like meat cooked over an open flame or with a high-temperature cooking method, such as grilling, barbecuing, roasting, or broiling? This type of meat is associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, according to a study published online in Diabetes Care. Of course, this varies from person to person, depending on your weight and body mass index. It also depends on how often you consume chicken and red meats weekly. It’s best to eat small portions of red meat or chicken prepared weekly, especially if you have diabetes or are prone to it.

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5. Frozen Yogurt

Because people consider frozen yogurt a treat, it’s best only to consume it in moderation if you have diabetes. Even though it sounds so healthy, especially since it’s yogurt, you would think it’d be a more nutritious snack. It may be similar to ice cream in some respects, but it doesn’t have cream, making it lower in calories and fat than regular ice cream. There are options, such as low-fat and nonfat frozen yogurts, you can choose from. However, they may have equal or slightly lower calorie counts than regular fro-yo and comparable amounts of sugar. So, if you have diabetes, be careful not to overeat frozen yogurt.

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4. Instant Noodles

Whether you are in college, living on a budget, or just looking for a quick and easy snack or small meal, Maggi seems to be the best choice. Like many kinds of pasta and instant noodles, Maggi has lots of carbohydrates, sugars, high sodium, preservatives, etc. All these together make up a not-so-healthy snack choice. Even if you don’t have diabetes, it’s best to avoid instant noodles. Furthermore, you should especially stay away if you are someone with diabetes or pre-diabetes, as they have a high chance of increasing blood glucose levels rapidly. Keep reading for the top foods people with diabetes should avoid.

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3. Pickles

Pickles: from the juice to the smell, you either love them or hate them. Even though pickles are originally cucumbers that don’t contain carbohydrates, remember that they soak in a juice, giving them that pickled flavor. Certain pickles, such as dill pickles, are exceptionally high in sodium due to the brine they soak in, which is harmful in large amounts. However, the vinegar in commercially prepared pickle juice may help lower blood sugar levels. Pickles and olives are rich in healthy fats, so it’s not all bad news for people who have diabetes and love pickles.

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2. Honey

Did you know that people with diabetes should avoid honey? Although honey is sweet and a popular topping, it’s not very healthy for those who have diabetes. Why? Because honey can cause blood sugar spikes. The same goes for agave nectar and maple syrup, even though they are “natural sugars.” Although these sweeteners aren’t highly processed like other sweet treats, they contain at least as many carbs as white sugar; most even have more. When you want to add a little bit of sweetness to something you are consuming, it’s best to avoid all forms of sugar and use natural low-carb sweeteners instead.

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1. Fruit Juice

Although you may consider this option a healthy beverage, fruit juice affects blood sugar similar to sodas and other sugary drinks. This rule doesn’t just go for liquids containing added sugar but unsweetened 100% fruit juice. Some fruit juice is actually even higher in carbs and sugar than soda pop. Fruit juice has vast amounts of fructose, which drives insulin resistance, heart disease, and obesity. An alternative to something more than just a glass of plain water, but better than juice, is to add a lemon wedge to your water. A lemon wedge has less than one carb and is virtually calorie-free. It also adds a little bit of flavor to a rather bland drink, without the consequences, especially for those who have diabetes.

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Food

The 30 Best Vegan Restaurants In The World

Veganism is a way of life. It involves abstaining from using any animal products. People who eat vegan diets will not consume any products, whether meat,… Trista Smith - March 29, 2022

Veganism is a way of life. It involves abstaining from using any animal products. People who eat vegan diets will not consume any products, whether meat, eggs, milk, and more. Why? Because they reject the commodity status of animals. By following this philosophy, vegans live a unique lifestyle that is often healthy and eco-conscious. In an effort to be healthy, vegan food has been consistently increasing in popularity recently. Furthermore, vegan restaurants are popping up worldwide, from Japan to Bali to the United States. Nevertheless, which restaurants offer a truly world-class vegan menu? Where should you go for an incredible plant-based meal experience? We’ve collected 30 of the best vegan restaurants globally for you to check out. Take a world tour with us to see some of the greatest vegan options globally.

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30. Sapiens, Santiago, Chile

Sapiens is a vegan restaurant with a mission. Started by three friends who sincerely believe that plant-based food is the future, this vegan restaurant is committed to sustainable, healthy, and cruelty-free meals. The “Sapiens family,” as they call their owners and staff, want their guests to enjoy tasty, filling plant-based dishes that leave them feeling good afterward. They have a variety of options on their menu, from breakfast bowls to pizza, and have an extensive dessert menu.

Do you want a whole dessert for an event? You can purchase their cakes and pies for pickup or delivery. If you’re gluten-free, don’t worry; many of their menu items are available without gluten. Furthermore, you can get their whole menu delivered in the greater Santiago area! Don’t miss out on this restaurant’s varied and delicious menu; be sure to visit when you’re in Santiago!

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29. Forever Vegano, Mexico City, Mexico

Forever Vegano is a contemporary vegan restaurant focusing on fresh, local, organic ingredients. They make their food without any refined sugar, preservatives, or other additives. Why? Because they believe that “we are what we eat,” so we should be nourishing ourselves with healthy, sustainable meals. You’ll find vegan versions of classics, like fishless fish sticks and tacos de pastor, along with sandwiches, hamburgers, and restaurant specials. They also offer a substantial breakfast menu that includes an acai bowl, pancakes, Chilaquiles de la Milpa, and more.

Moreover, don’t miss out on their vegan dessert menu, with vegan takes on tres leches cake, French toast, and Reese’s cups! Whether you’re dining in or ordering delivery, Forever Vegano has many vegan menu options to fit your needs.

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28. Saido, Tokyo, Japan

Voted HappyCow’s best vegan restaurant in the world in 2019, Saido is an innocuous restaurant with one goal. And that’s to present beautiful, delicious vegan food free from preservatives, refined sugars, and animal-derived ingredients. Saido’s menu focuses on a contemporary interpretation of classic Japanese food that focuses on food diversity. They offer set lunch and dinner meal options, as well as a dinner tapas-style option. You can also enjoy carefully selected liquors and herbal cordials, including vegan sake and wine options.

Their menu offerings vary throughout the day; they come between lunch and dinner to enjoy their “cafe time,” featuring hand-made sweets and organic mulberry sweet tea. With vegan variations on classic dishes like ramen, curry, pork cutlets, and more, Saido is a restaurant you cannot miss if you travel to Tokyo!

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27. Mozaic, Ubud, Bali

While Mozaic is not solely a vegan restaurant, it has a vegetarian/vegan tasting menu that has garnered accolades throughout Bali for being one of the best offerings available. Mozaic is committed to using only local, organic, ethically sourced ingredients for their vegan menu and offers a wide variety of customization to fit any dietary restriction or need. Their dishes combine local ingredients with French fine dining techniques to create Bali’s one-of-a-kind vegan dining experience. Their menu is constantly changing based on seasonal availability, so you can relax and enjoy the hand-selected options when you go.

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26. Red Sparrow Pizza, Melbourne, Australia

Melbourne’s first vegan pizza restaurant is a testament to the delicious flavors of vegan ingredients – and to the fact that just because you are vegan doesn’t mean you don’t love pizza! Their vegan pizza menu offers everything from the classic “cheese” pizza to barbeque chicken, cheeseburger, and pepperoni. However, pizza’s not all they have; they also provide “not wings” (plant-based chicken wings), waffle fries, and more. They offer an onion- and garlic-free pizza sauce on request and will work with you to accommodate any dietary restrictions. If you’re looking for an incredible vegan menu and a fun, modern dining experience, Red Sparrow Pizza is the place to be.

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25. Rasoterra, Barcelona, Spain

Describing itself as “a bistro with personality,” Rasoterra pairs exclusively plant-based dishes with local, small-batch wines, vegan beer, and other beverages. Even better, many veggies are grown in their own gardens, and they embrace the “slow food” philosophy. Their vegan tasting menu is served a dish at a time, with explanations about each plateful, and changes with the availability of seasonal ingredients. They’re committed to preparing incredible vegan food while respecting the environment and promoting sustainability. If you’re looking for a relaxing oasis in Barcelona, stop by Rasoterra and enjoy a delicious meal with a story behind every bite.

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24. Lucky Leek, Berlin, Germany

Berlin has a vast offering of vegan restaurants, but Lucky Leek stands out among them. They offer a fresh, seasonal tasting menu in 3 to 5 courses, with wine pairings if you want them. Their dishes emphasize gourmet cuisine. Thus, the price is a little higher. However, they show their focus on incredible vegan cuisine with every plate. For example, the current tasting menu includes a white onion cream soup, a beetroot walnut confit, smoked tofu, and an apple bread and butter pudding with sweet potato cream and plum ice cream.

The curated menu changes monthly, offering creative, stunningly plated dishes. The attentive servers are passionate about their food, and each ingredient on every plate plays a unique role in the meal. Lucky Leek is a can’t-miss spot if you’re looking for a luxurious vegan fine dining experience. Keep reading for more mouthwatering vegan meals!

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23. Sova Vegan Butcher, Dublin, Ireland

Sova Vegan Butcher offers a unique take on healthy vegan food, serving vegan dishes focusing on ensuring each meal has all the essential nutrients the body needs. Their tagline is “Tasty, Healthy, Happy, Sexy,” and their menu is the highlight of the atmosphere. With dishes like seitan steak, chia burgers, soya schnitzels, and a full brunch menu, Sova seeks to appeal to both vegans and non-vegans alike. Sova prepares popular dishes with plant-based ingredients and introduces an entirely new gastronomic experience to Dublin’s culinary sphere. They believe that sustainable, healthy food is the way to the future and that the meat industry is killing the planet. Sova is the best place to get it if you want incredible vegan food in Dublin.

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22. Herban Fix, Atlanta, Georgia, USA

Have you ever been to this delicious vegan restaurant in Atlanta? Herban Fix is run by Chef Wendy Chang, a Taiwanese chef with nearly 40 years of restaurant experience. For her, Herban Fix is more than just a restaurant; it’s a part of a green, healthy movement that brings delicious food to the public while being environmentally conscious. They offer a fusion menu that lets you experience a variety of iconic Asian dishes, upgraded with fresh, plant-based ingredients. Some examples include spicy tofu soup with enoki and king oyster mushrooms, steamed buns with crispy soy duck, pom pom mushroom steak, and so much more. If you want to explore the world of vegan fusion cuisine, look no further than Herban Fix.

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21. Greenery Kitchen, Makati, Philippines

Greenery Kitchen is a different type of vegan restaurant, offering only delivery and pickup food options. Their 100% plant-based vegan menu features a variety of Filipino favorites like pancit guisado and lomi, as well as other Asian-inspired dishes like their vegan take on Korean BBQ and mapo tofu. They make all their meat substitutes in-house to control the quality and flavor. Their vegan menu options are all reasonably priced, as well! If you’re visiting Manila, consider ordering take-out from Greenery Kitchen. They offer various order platforms and same-day delivery in several locations in and around Makati. You won’t be disappointed!

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20. VeganBurg, Singapore

See, not all vegan places have to be fancy gourmet. VeganBurg was the first 100% plant-based burger restaurant globally and is considered by many to still make the best vegan meals around. They have many burgers and sides available, including smoky bbq burgers, chili krab burgers, and seasonal specials. Their focus is on offering fast food with a healthy, sustainable twist, providing hearty, satisfying eco-conscious meals. Not interested in the burgers? You can try their award-winning sides, like cheesy fries, bbq franks, chik n’ tenders, and more. While they have restaurants in various locations, don’t miss the chance to eat at the original VeganBurg in Singapore.

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19. Pun Pun Market, Chiang Mai, Thailand

Pun Pun Market is more than just an incredible vegan restaurant; it’s a way of life for the owner and the people who live and work the land. Seed saving is Pun Pun’s primary objective. However, they realized that they had a unique opportunity to create and stimulate the local, organic market by opening their own restaurant and natural food store. They focus on raw and lightly-cooked foods that support local food systems, and the majority of their sauces are homemade.

They offer northeastern Thai food, curries, soups, and more. If you love what you try at the restaurant, you can visit their shop, where they sell homemade yogurt, local produce, and other products from their farm and local groups. See if they’re offering an event when you’re there to get the whole Pun Pun Market experience. Pun Pun is a great vegan choice if you’re looking for a restaurant with impact.

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18. Mono City Bar, Glasgow, Scotland

Mono City Bar opened in 2002 to provide a welcoming, fun, accessible environment that serves great vegan food. They share a roof with Monorail Music, which provides an eclectic soundtrack for your dining experience. All of their food is made ethically and contains no animal products. They put a vegan spin on Scottish classics like black pudding and serve some of your favorite comfort foods, like mac and cheese. Pizzas, bar snacks, and more, round out their menu. If you’re looking for a fun, eclectic atmosphere with fun events, a strong sense of community, and a delicious vegan menu, don’t miss Mono City Bar. It will become your favorite vegan restaurant.

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17. Le Comptoir, Los Angeles, USA

Le Comptoir is a genuinely unique vegan restaurant experience, serving an 8-course tasting menu where local vegetables play the starring role. While meat is an option on the menu, every course has a vegetarian- or vegan-friendly option. The restaurant is intimate, with a small counter that seats only 10. Moreover, while the food is fine dining, the atmosphere is not; the chef serves the dishes to you individually while sharing culinary lessons with you. Even better, all the meals feature ingredients from their own kitchen garden and local farmers. If you’re interested in an up-close-and-personal meal experience with a Michelin-starred chef, Le Comptoir is a can’t-miss location. It is in the US, so hopefully you can swing by sometime.

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16. Miss Saigon, Lisboa, Portugal

Miss Saigon is consistently rated one of the best vegan restaurants globally, and it’s easy to see why. The M Butterfly restaurant offers over 700 rotating dishes from over 70 countries, all made from ethically sourced, organic ingredients. They work hard to use local products whenever possible, as they want to minimize waste and encourage sustainability. Examples of menu offerings include paella del borne, stroganoff with seitan and mushrooms, and hummus with dukkah and gluten-free toast. Their vegan food menu changes nearly every day, so don’t hesitate to visit multiple times and experience the full range of delicious options.

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15. PLANTA, Toronto, Canada

Have you ever been to this amazing vegan restaurant in Canada? PLANTA is more than just a single vegan restaurant. Founded in 2016, PLANTA is a collective of 100% plant-based restaurants with a dream: to embrace the power of plants to nourish, inspire, and sustain. PLANTA Toronto embraces the collective’s vision by serving dishes made from seasonal, local produce whenever possible and eliminating single-use items. Their menu is primarily Asian-based, with vegan sushi and noodle options, but they also offer pizza and pasta dishes that will appeal to a wide variety of palates. Their weekend brunch has your favorites, like French toast and cinnamon buns, but it also offers unique options like shakshuka, udon, and patatas bravas. If you’re in Toronto, don’t miss out on this contemporary, sustainability-focused vegan option.

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14. Haus Hiltl, Zurich, Switzerland

Haus Hiltl has the honor of being the oldest vegetarian restaurant globally, being located in Zurich since 1898. With over 100 dishes offered in their buffet and an a la carte menu highlighting seasonal delicacies, Haus Hiltl has something for everyone. Their cuisine hails from worldwide, taking you from India to Korea to classic Swiss dishes and desserts. Seasonal dishes include delights like wild garlic spaghetti and Zurcher Bratwurst, and Rosti.

They also offer takeaway options by weight if you want to try their food but don’t have time for a sit-down meal. The original founder’s son and grandson were confectionary masters, and Haus Hiltl has incorporated that into their offerings with a substantial vegetarian dessert menu. Don’t miss out on this truly unique dining experience. Keep reading for more delicious vegan dishes at amazing worldwide restaurants.

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13. Joia, Milan, Italy

Joia, the first vegetarian restaurant in Europe to win a Michelin star, has been pushing the boundaries of fine dining since its conception in 1989. Chef Pietro’s avant-garde cooking style is based on the philosophy of “natural cuisine,” using only organic produce with no meat. Now, Head Chef Sauro Ricci has taken up the mantle while Pietro teaches worldwide. Joia offers casual bistro-style dining at the front of the restaurant, with the fine dining restaurant behind.

You can try a taste of the menu during lunch or sign up for the full 16-course “Zenith” tasting menu at dinner to be fully immersed in Joia’s local food philosophy. The menus change depending on what is seasonally available; most of their ingredients come from small local farms around Milan. If you want to try an extensive seasonal menu that is innovative and unique, head to Joia.

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12. Grӧn, Helsinki, Finland

Grӧn is not specifically a vegan restaurant, but they offer a seasonal vegan menu based on organic Scandinavian produce. Their focus is on sustainability, working with local and wild produce as well as seasonal options, and they don’t use anything outside its natural growth season. In winter, they only use ingredients they’ve preserved in-house to continue serving delicious food when little is growing. Their tasting menu has up to 12 courses, and is a true delight, featuring dishes like pumpkin porridge and grilled Jerusalem artichoke. You might even enjoy one of their trial dishes, like vegan Brie cheese! If you want to try vegan food emphasizing incredible quality and seasonality, you’ll love visiting Grӧn.

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11. Balwoo Gongyang, Seoul, South Korea

Balwoo Gongyang serves a unique variety of vegetarian/vegan cuisine: Korean temple cuisine. This cuisine shares the history of nearly 2,000 years of Korean Buddhism. Plus, it focuses on simple, high-quality dishes made with 100% domestic, organic ingredients. Their recipes also avoid the “five pungent vegetables”: garlic, green onion, onion, leek, and wild chive, making Balwoo Gongyang a truly unique dining experience. They offer a variety of seasonal tasting courses based on the five categories of food in Buddhism. If you want to try a special type of cuisine that highlights traditional recipes and methods, you can’t go wrong with Balwoo Gongyang. Keep reading for the top ten vegan restaurants worldwide.

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10. TIAN, Vienna, Austria

TIAN believes that healthy, vegetarian food is integral to a good quality of life. They work hard to provide extraordinary vegan cuisine using seasonal ingredients, including rare vegetables and fruit. Their menu is primarily vegetarian, but all courses can be ordered vegan. They offer both 6- and 8-course menus for lunch and dinner, and you can also get drink pairings for an additional cost. Some examples of their dishes include Radicchio Rosa, Beni Wild Harvest, and their Jerusalem Artichoke. TIAN’s look and feel are overtly modern, and every meal is immaculately plated, feeding your eyes as well as your stomach. Their cordial and enthusiastic staff is at the center of their unique experience, and you won’t want to miss out on their creative offerings.

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9. Pied a Terre, London, UK

Here is a top vegan restaurant in London. Founded in 1991, Pied a Terre is the longest-standing independent restaurant with a Michelin star in the UK. Their latest award was the No1 vegan tasting experience in the UK, a testament to the exacting standards for all their dishes. While not specifically a vegan restaurant, Pied a Terre offers plant-based menus at all lunch and dinner services, from their full 10-course tasting menu to their four-course lunch option. You can also order a la carte from their menu. Or, add a wine flight pairing to your tasting menu for an additional fee. Their vegan menu includes dishes like a Waldorf Grumolo salad or a baked soybean terrine, with a variety of desserts available. If you want to experience classic French dining with a Greek twist, you must visit Pied a Terre.

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8. Elizabeth’s Gone Raw, Washington, DC, USA

When you go to Washington DC to visit historical landmarks, check out this vegan restaurant as well. Elizabeth’s Gone Raw is a unique vegan restaurant open three nights a week. They offer a six-course vegan tasting menu inspired by owner Elizabeth Petty’s plant-based food journey during her experience with breast cancer. Their menu focuses on seasonal organic products and offers organic and biodynamic wine pairings at an additional cost. They take extreme care with everything from the ingredients to the presentation, and plates are works of art. You can also add a vegan cheese course to your tasting menu. Popular dishes include kale chips, parmesan ravioli, and rhubarb ginger ice cream. Elizabeth’s Gone Raw offers a truly unique, contemporary vegan dining experience that you can’t miss. However, they don’t often have space for walk-ins, so make sure to reserve your table in advance.

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7. Yellow, Sydney, Australia

If you have the chance, go to this vegan restaurant in Sydney. Yellow is a plant-based restaurant inspired by the contemporary European dining scene, serving creative vegan dishes in an informal atmosphere. They serve a six-course vegan tasting menu at an affordable price. Plus, this vegan restaurant offers both wine pairings and non-alcoholic pairings for an additional cost. Though they don’t have any a la carte options, their tasting menu provides a variety of unique dishes.

You can try salted and fermented heirloom carrots with harissa oil and wild fennel or a buckwheat blini with pine mushroom and kelp. Their wine offerings reflect the Australian and international wine scenes, featuring familiar wines next to small brands and organic wines. Their menu focuses on heirloom veggies grown by local suppliers, and the chef, Brent Savage, won “Chef of the Year” in 2015. Yellow offers a truly artful vegan dining experience in Sydney and is a must-try if you’re in the city.

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6. Gauthier Soho, London, UK

Gauthier Soho, run by vegetable enthusiast and award-winning chef Alexis Gauthier, offers exquisite French gastronomy with a vegan twist. Alexis uses his 25 years of experience to his advantage, creating refined, luxurious vegan menu items that don’t use any animal products. Gauthier Soho offers two tasting menu options, Petit and Grand, which change depending on the seasonal produce available. The Petit menu offers seven courses; while the Grand menu has 10, and each can have a wine pairing at an additional cost. With dishes like wild garlic and rocket focaccia, a variety of canapes, and a “composition of dark chocolate,” Gauthier Soho leans into the French fine dining experience with gusto. You won’t want to miss this one-of-a-kind vegan offer. Continue reading for the top five best vegan restaurants in the world.

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5. Daigo, Tokyo, Japan

Daigo restaurant is one of the most beautiful dining options on this list, offering Kaiseki-style vegetarian and vegan dishes served tea ceremony style. Since 1950, Daigo has been taking advantage of the abundance of Tsukiji market to create stunning seasonal menu offerings. Some meals use small amounts of egg or bonito flakes. So, they request that you call ahead if you want a completely vegan experience. With four different tasting menu options and a focus on stunning seasonal cuisine, Daigo truly lives up to its 2 Michelin star rating. Some dishes include carrot and burdock soup with deep-fried potatoes and soba noodles with green onions, Japanese mustard, and seaweed. While they are a little expensive, the truly unique take on traditional Japanese cuisine, which incorporates Western vegetables and techniques, is well worth the splurge. Get your reservations in early because they can fill up quickly.

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4. Kajitsu, New York City, USA

Kaijitsu – a name that means “fine day” or “day of celebration” – serves vegetarian/vegan shojin cuisine, considered the foundation of all Japanese cooking. They also have a Kaiseki-style tasting menu emphasizing fresh, seasonal ingredients. Even their dishware is carefully selected to fit their space, with some pieces created over 200 years ago! Their 10-course Omakase menu changes monthly based on what seasonal produce is available. Example dishes include Kuchidori, Kajitsu’s signature dish, which is sesame tofu seasoned with horseradish and served in a crispy rice wafer.

They’ve also served shiitake mushroom jelly with sesame tofu sauce, charcoal grilled fennel with fava beans, and seasonal desserts. Their sake pairings are subtle, high-quality offerings that emphasize the flavor of the dishes, and they serve green tea sourced from a 300-year-old tea maker in Kyoto. New York is a food-lover’s paradise, with a nearly overwhelming array of options, but you would be remiss in your vegan dining experience if you missed out on Kajitsu.

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3. Vege Wonder, Beijing, China

Vege Wonder in WF Central, a trendy dining destination in Beijing. The modern vegetarian restaurant offers a unique take on Chinese vegetarian meals, choosing to ignore “mock meat” entirely in favor of getting the most out of seasonal vegetables available in China. They use familiar veggies in unique ways and often feature mushrooms in their meals. For example, by replacing meat with the mushrooms’ natural umami flavor. It’s important to note that their menu is plant-based but not vegan; however, the dishes can be made vegan upon request. Their innocuous name hides a passionate fine-dining experience in a modern setting and is definitely a stop to add to your list if you’re in Beijing! Don’t miss the chance to try this Michelin Star restaurant’s innovative take on plant-based cuisine.

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2. Anastasia, Tel Aviv, Israel

Anastasia is the first vegan cafe in Israel, founded in 2014 by friends Roi Ezer and Tamar Ayalon. They emphasize fresh, quality raw materials, don’t use sugars or white flours in their dishes and seek to make vegan food accessible. Anastasia wants to dispel the myth that vegan food must be expensive and can’t taste good. They’ve even established the first vegan factory in Tel Aviv to produce all the raw products they use in the restaurant. They serve various dishes, from breakfast cereal to sandwiches to main dishes like bechamel cream fettuccine and roasted vegetable curry. Many of the options on their menu are gluten-free. They make their own vegan cheeses, yogurt, and sauces as well! Anastasia is a vegan oasis in Tel Aviv, and you simply must eat there if you’re in the area. Can you guess where the top vegan restaurant is globally?

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1. ONA, Arès, France

Last but not least, ONA is truly a passion project for founder and head chef Claire Vallee. They opened it in 2016 after over 100 people donated to her crowdfunding campaign and the laborers that joined her workfunding efforts. The vegan restaurant’s menu is seasonal and experimental. More importantly, Claire takes pride in involving her entire team in the menu’s conception and execution. The restaurant has earned a Michelin Star not only for its food; ONA has also received the Michelin Green Star for the restaurant’s gastronomy and sustainability efforts. The restaurant has over 100 varieties of edible plants on its green terrace, uses renewable energy, and has a compost system to minimize waste truly. ONA is a genuinely unique gastronomic vegan experience driven by a desire to highlight the delicious flavors of organic produce. If you have the opportunity to attend the Odyss dinner menu, don’t miss it!