Boston’s culinary scene is more than red sauce classics and upscale seafood spots—there are plenty of vegetarian-friendly options in the city as well. At the best vegetarian restaurants in Boston, you can find a range of global cuisines, from Indian and Ethiopian to French and Cambodian.
Enjoy a farm-to-table meal at a romantic bistro in Cambridge. Explore the flavors of Cambodia in South Boston. Celebrate community and African flavors in Dorchester. From cozy neighborhood spots to chic dining destinations, these nine of the best vegetarian restaurants in Boston.
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Read on to discover Boston’s best restaurants for vegetarians.
For traditional Indian cuisine at one of the best vegetarian restaurants in Boston — try Nirvana: The Taste of India (West Cambridge)
Nirvana: The Taste of India in Cambridge’s Harvard Square is a destination for modern takes on Indian classics. Led by Chef Paramjit Singh, who brings more than 25 years of culinary experience from Punjab, this spot blends traditional recipes with inventive flavors. It has a separate vegetarian menu full of classic Indian favorites like masala dosa and aloo gobi. The inviting space, bathed in soft light and cozy seating, is great for a casual lunch or an evening celebration.
For farm-to-table dishes in a romantic setting — try Forage (Cambridge)
Forage is a love letter to New England flavors and contemporary American cuisine. Its seasonal, vegan- and vegetarian-friendly menu is crafted from the freshest local ingredients. Every dish, like the roasted golden beet salad, reflects the restaurant’s commitment to sustainability and flavor. The warm, rustic interiors, paired with a thoughtfully curated wine list with natural and biodynamic selections, create the ideal setting for an intimate dinner or a laid-back gathering with friends.
For traditional Ethiopian food at a cozy neighborhood spot — try Blue Nile Ethiopian Restaurant (Jamaica Plains)
Blue Nile Ethiopian Restaurant invites you to explore Ethiopian cuisine’s rich and communal dining tradition. The menu is vegetarian-friendly and full of flavor—think vibrant stews, spiced lentils, and fresh salads—and served with soft injera bread, encouraging a shared experience. The colorful decor and welcoming vibe make this the place where you feel at home, whether you’re a regular or trying Ethiopian food for the first time.
For global comfort food in a lively neighborhood spot — try Comfort Kitchen (Dorchester)
Led by Biplaw Rai and chef-partner Kwasi Kwaa, Comfort Kitchen is a celebration of African flavors. Named Boston Magazine‘s best new restaurant in 2023, the deeply personal dishes celebrate locally sourced ingredients and include vegetarian-friendly options like jerk jackfruit sliders. The space, filled with vibrant art and communal tables, invites you to connect, whether over brunch or dinner. Pair your meal with a globally-inspired cocktail like the sumac sour.
For innovative Chinese American food and playful tropical drinks — try Wusong Road (Cambridge)
Wusong Road is where you go for playful Chinese American dishes in a lively space. Chef Jason Doo whips up vegetarian-friendly favorites like grilled street corn rangoon and smashed cucumber salad best paired with tropical-inspired cocktails like the classic mai tai. With bamboo accents, the space goes all in on the tropical theme and is a great choice for a night out with friends or a playful date.
For modern American cuisine in an iconic neighborhood pub — try Local 149 (South Boston)
Local 149 is a neighborhood gastropub with a vegetarian-friendly menu of creative comfort food, like cauliflower wings, vegetable-forward flatbreads, and a miso shroom bahn mi. Don’t miss the popular brunch, with vegetarian egg dishes and vibrant salads. Exposed brick walls, cozy lighting, and a friendly vibe set the stage for a casual dinner or a lively brunch. Creative cocktails and wide selection of craft beers add to the energetic vibe.
For Southeast Asian fusion at one of the best vegetarian restaurants in Boston — try Banyan Bar + Refuge (South End)
Banyan Bar + Refuge is a celebration of Asian-inspired flavors. The menu is filled with bold, sharable plates, like bao buns filled with avocado and Thai chili cauliflower. Banyan’s beautifully designed space is where fun meets flavor. The cocktails are carefully crafted with infusions made in-house. The beautifully designed dining room includes charming Asian design accents like lanterns, cherry blossoms, and bamboo.
For traditional Indian cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere — try The Maharaja (Cambridge)
Come to The Maharaja for a traditional north Indian-based feast. The vegetarian dishes are a highlight, with options like creamy paneer tikka masala and fragrant vegetable biryani. Complement your meal with a traditional drink like mango lassi or spiced masala chai. The interior is adorned with intricate art and warm hues, making it a great choice for a special occasion or a romantic date night.
For award-winning Cambodian and French dishes at one of the best vegetarian-friendly restaurants in Boston — try Elephant Walk (South End)
Elephant Walk serves award-winning Cambodian and French cuisine with extensive vegetarian options. This family-owned spot celebrates Chef Nadsa de Monteiro’s cultural heritage. The menu seamlessly blends bold spices and refined techniques to create memorable dishes like spicy ginger curries or udon noodle salad. With its chic interior and warm color palette, Elephant Walk is ideal for a cozy dinner date or a gathering to savor something unique.
Boston’s vibrant vegetarian dining scene showcases the city’s diverse culinary influences. From cozy neighborhood gems to chic, contemporary spots, these restaurants stand out for their creative plant-based dishes that celebrate fresh, local ingredients and bold flavors. Whether you’re in the mood for Indian, Ethiopian, Cambodian, or American cuisine, Boston’s vegetarian-friendly dining options are sure to satisfy.
