Everyone says that being a vegetarian in China is impossible. Well, clearly those people haven’t been to Beijing. Because this city is full of veg-friendly restaurants and it even has a smattering of pure-vegetarian places to eat. So in case you’re looking to take a break from meat a few times a week or are hosting a vegetarian friend you have plenty of places to choose from. Here’s our mini-guide to some of the best vegetarian and vegetarian-friendly places to eat in Beijing. 

Pure-Vegetarian Restaurants in Beijing

1. King’s Joy

King’s Joy is a dining experience that shouldn’t be missed – even if you’re not a vegetarian. Yes, it’s on the expensive side, but the meal will no doubt be memorable. Like most pure-vegetarian restaurants in Beijing, King’s Joy serves up Chinese-style dishes and impressive mock meats, but they also have an extensive selection of unexpected dishes. There’s sushi with dragon fruit, mock lamb kebabs, delectable mushroom concoctions and so much more. Guests can also choose from a variety of set meals, starting from around RMB400. Everything is impeccably presented and the restaurant’s atmosphere matches its beautiful food. 

See a listing for King’s Joy.

2. Baihe Vegetarian

Don’t let the hairy chuan’r dissuade you. This Confucian-style restaurant conjures up wholly-meatless Chinese classics using malleable mushrooms, tofu and soy protein. The Peking-style duck is a particular favorite.

See a listing for Baihe Vegetarian.

3. The Veggie Table

Proving that Beijing-style vegetarian cuisine is by no means the exclusive preserve of Buddhist monks and soppy Jack Johnson fans, this superbly honed vegan eatery offers some of the very best sandwiches found anywhere in the city. The shiitake mushroom burger is a sensation, while the crispy baked home fries and fresh homemade dips will keep you coming back.

See a listing for The Veggie Table.

4. Tianchu Miaoxiang Vegetarian (Chaowai)

This place serves up an almost daunting range of great veggie fare. They have some seriously impressive mock meats and soups and a ton of noodle and rice dishes. Prices are reasonable and last time we checked they offer cooking classes as well.

See a listing for Tianchu Miaoxiang Vegetarian (Chaowai).

Vegetarian-Friendly Restaurants in Beijing

5. In and Out

One thing that’s great about Yunnanese food is that it’s incredibly vegetarian friendly. And In and Out is one of our favorite Yunnanese joints in the city. This Sanlitun restaurant specializes in creating tasty and quality food in the style of the village of Lijiang. And the best part is almost half of the menu is vegetarian. Along with meat dishes, they serve up a variety of mushroom, potato and vegetable fare. And make sure to try their goat cheese (pictured). 

See a listing for In and Out. 

6. Ramo

If you have a vegetarian friend in town, Ramo is a great place to take them. They dish out some of the best pizzas in town. Plus, they have plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. It's one of those places that will please everyone. 

See a listing for Ramo.

7. Tribe (Lido)

Tribe isn’t strictly a vegetarian restaurant, but they have plenty of veggie (and really healthy!) options on their menu. You can order up salads, grain bowls and other favorites at both of their locations. 

Read our full review here. See a listing for Tribe (Lido).

8. Moka Bros

With a few locations scattered around town, Moka Bros has some quality veggie options. They offer healthy lunches: power bowls, salads and wraps. They also have a great selection of cakes and pastries if you’re feeling more indulgent. 

See a listing for Moka Bros.

Read more Beijing Food Guides